The ski train is a tradition that dates to the 1940s. Nearly 700 skiers board the train with different cars holding polka or different music parties while others are reserved for families.

Last year's charter train was canceled after the Alaska Railroad announced layoffs and parked cars to save money.

"We're thrilled the ski train is back," said association executive director Diane Moxness. "It's an institution. We usually sell out - so we're anticipating we will again."

In a few weeks, ticket order forms will be available online or at the association's office. Tickets are $100 for ski club members, $130 for the general public, a 10 percent price increase, Moxness said.

"They raised the price," Moxness said of the railroad. "We don't want them to be losing their shirt on it. But we want it to be a doable price for a family, too."

Avid ski train fans try to secure seats in their favorite portion of the train. Volunteers have their own car.

"People who want to make noise and have a big party, we can put them together with like-minded people," Moxness said. "But if you're the last people picking seats, you're going to end up where you're going to end up."